Top 11 High School English Teacher Certifications

Certifications are important for a high school English teacher in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge in their field. Certifications can help teachers stand out from other candidates when applying for jobs, as they show that the teacher has taken the time to learn the latest strategies and methods used to teach English. Additionally, certifications can show potential employers that the teacher is committed to staying up-to-date with current trends in education and has taken steps to develop their skills as an educator. Finally, certifications can be beneficial when teachers seek promotions or transfers, as they provide evidence of knowledge and proficiency in their field.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for High School English Teachers and explain how they can contribute to a high school english teacher's career.

What are High School English Teacher Certifications?

High school English teacher certification is a credential that certifies an individual to teach English in high school. It typically requires a bachelor's degree in English or education, as well as successful completion of a teacher preparation program and passing scores on state-mandated tests. High school English teachers are responsible for teaching the fundamentals of literature, writing, grammar, and composition to their students in grades 9-12.

High school English teacher certification can be beneficial for both teachers and students. It gives teachers the necessary qualifications to work as high school educators and provides them with the knowledge and experience needed to effectively teach their students. Certification also ensures that teachers are up-to-date on best practices in teaching such as using modern technology and staying abreast of new developments in the field of education. Furthermore, it demonstrates to employers that they have met all requirements to become certified professionals.

For students, having certified teachers helps ensure they receive quality instruction and guidance from experienced educators who understand their needs and learning styles. Certified instructors can provide positive role models for their students by working hard to create engaging lessons that foster critical thinking skills while helping them build strong reading comprehension abilities. Additionally, certified English teachers can help prepare their students for college by introducing them to advanced material early on so they’ll be better prepared when they enter higher education institutions.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the requirements for high school English teacher certification in your state. Requirements vary from state to state, so it is important to understand what is necessary in order to become certified as a high school English teacher.

Related: What does a High School English Teacher do?

Top 11 High School English Teacher Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to High School English Teachers today.

1. National Board Certification for Teachers

National Board Certification for Teachers is a voluntary assessment program that recognizes experienced teachers who have demonstrated advanced teaching knowledge, skills, and practices. It is the highest certification available for teachers in the United States. The process typically takes about one year to complete and involves submitting evidence of effective teaching practices, completing written assessments, and participating in an interview with a National Board-certified assessor.

In order to obtain National Board Certification, teachers must first apply through the National Board website. This requires submitting a portfolio of evidence demonstrating their teaching practice along with a fee of $2,575 (as of 2021). Once the application has been submitted and accepted, teachers will be assigned an assessor who will review their evidence and conduct an interview. After this stage is completed, teachers will receive a score on each component of the assessment which will determine whether they are certified or not.

To maintain National Board Certification, teachers must renew their certification every 10 years by submitting evidence of continued professional growth and development. Renewal fees are typically lower than initial application fees.

2. Advanced Placement (AP) Teacher Certification

Advanced Placement (AP) Teacher Certification is a program offered by the College Board that allows teachers to become certified in teaching Advanced Placement courses. The certification process requires teachers to demonstrate their knowledge of the subject matter and their ability to teach it effectively.

In order to become AP certified, teachers must first complete an approved professional development course. This course typically takes about two weeks and consists of lectures, readings, and activities designed to help prepare them for teaching AP courses. After completing the course, teachers must take and pass the corresponding AP Exam with a score of 3 or higher.

Once they have passed the exam, teachers can then apply for certification through the College Board’s website. The cost of applying for certification varies depending on the number of exams taken and ranges from $45-$95 per exam. Once approved, teachers will receive a certificate that is valid for five years and must be renewed every five years in order to remain certified.

Overall, becoming an AP certified teacher is a great way for educators to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in teaching Advanced Placement courses. It also provides students with access to high-quality instruction that can help them succeed in college-level classes.

3. International Baccalaureate (IB) Teacher Certification

International Baccalaureate (IB) Teacher Certification is a certification program for teachers who wish to teach the International Baccalaureate curriculum. This certification is offered by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO), and it is recognized by schools all over the world.

The IB Teacher Certification program consists of two parts: an online course and an assessment. The online course covers topics such as the IB philosophy, teaching strategies, assessment, and curriculum development. This course takes approximately 25 hours to complete. After completing the online course, candidates must take an assessment that tests their knowledge of the IB curriculum and teaching methods.

To become certified, candidates must have a valid teaching license in their home country or state, and they must be recommended by their school or district for certification. Candidates must also submit a portfolio of evidence demonstrating their knowledge of the IB curriculum and teaching methods.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on where you live and which school or district you are applying through. Generally speaking, it costs around $600-$1000 USD to become certified in the US, while in other countries it may cost more or less depending on local fees and taxes.

In conclusion, International Baccalaureate (IB) Teacher Certification is a rigorous program that requires both an online course and an assessment in order to become certified. It usually takes around 25 hours to complete the online course portion of the certification process, after which candidates must submit a portfolio demonstrating their knowledge of the IB curriculum and teaching methods. The cost varies depending on location but generally ranges from $600-$1000 USD in the US.

4. State Teaching License

A State Teaching License is a credential that allows an individual to teach in a public school in their state. It is required for any teacher who wishes to work in the public school system, and it must be renewed periodically. The requirements and process for obtaining a State Teaching License vary by state, but typically involve completing an approved teacher preparation program, passing a background check, and passing a standardized test such as the Praxis exam.

The length of time it takes to get a State Teaching License depends on the individual's educational background and experience. Those who have already completed an approved teacher preparation program may be able to obtain their license more quickly than those who need to complete additional coursework or training. Additionally, some states require applicants to complete student teaching or other field experiences before they can receive their license.

To obtain a State Teaching License, individuals must first meet all of the requirements set forth by their state's licensing board. This typically includes completing an approved teacher preparation program, passing background checks, and passing standardized tests such as the Praxis exam. Once these requirements are met, individuals can apply for their license with their state's licensing board.

The cost of obtaining a State Teaching License varies by state but typically includes application fees and testing fees. Some states may also require applicants to pay additional fees for fingerprinting or background checks.

5. English as a Second Language (ESL) Certification

English as a Second Language (ESL) Certification is an internationally recognized qualification that demonstrates a person’s ability to teach English to non-native speakers. It is typically obtained through a course or program offered by an accredited institution.

The length of time it takes to get ESL certification depends on the type of program and the individual's learning pace. Generally, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete the necessary courses and exams.

To get ESL certification, individuals must first complete the required courses and pass any applicable exams. They may also need to demonstrate their teaching abilities in a practicum or other hands-on experience. After completing all requirements, individuals will receive their certificate or diploma from their institution.

The cost of ESL certification varies depending on the institution and program chosen. Generally, tuition can range from several hundred dollars for online courses to several thousand dollars for more comprehensive programs.

6. Reading Specialist Certification

Reading Specialist Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates advanced knowledge and expertise in the field of reading instruction. It is typically offered at the graduate level and requires completion of a master’s degree program in education or literacy studies. The certification process involves completing coursework, passing an exam, and demonstrating proficiency in teaching reading.

The length of time it takes to get Reading Specialist Certification varies depending on the individual's prior experience and educational background. Generally, it takes two to three years to complete all the requirements for certification. This includes completing a master's degree program in education or literacy studies as well as any additional courses needed to meet state standards. Additionally, individuals must pass an exam administered by their state board of education or other certifying body.

To become certified as a Reading Specialist, individuals must first complete a master’s degree program in education or literacy studies from an accredited university or college. After completing the program, they must then pass an exam administered by their state board of education or other certifying body. Finally, they must demonstrate proficiency in teaching reading through classroom observation and/or portfolio review.

The cost of Reading Specialist Certification varies depending on individual circumstances such as tuition costs for the master’s degree program and fees associated with taking the certification exam. Generally speaking, however, total costs can range from $5,000-$10,000 USD depending on where you live and which school you attend for your master’s degree program.

7. Gifted and Talented Education Certification

Gifted and Talented Education Certification is a professional certification program designed to help educators gain the skills and knowledge needed to effectively teach students who are identified as gifted and talented. It is an endorsement that can be added to a teaching license, indicating the holder has met certain standards of practice in working with gifted and talented students.

The amount of time it takes to get Gifted and Talented Education Certification will vary depending on the individual's experience level, state requirements, and the type of program they choose. Generally, it takes between one and two years to complete the necessary coursework for certification.

To obtain Gifted and Talented Education Certification, individuals must first meet any prerequisites required by their state or institution. This may include having a valid teaching license or degree in education. After meeting these requirements, individuals must complete a specialized course of study focused on gifted and talented education. This could include courses such as curriculum development for gifted learners, assessment techniques for identifying giftedness, instructional strategies for working with advanced learners, and more.

The cost of obtaining Gifted and Talented Education Certification will depend on the type of program chosen as well as any fees associated with applying for certification or taking exams. Generally speaking, most programs range from around $2,000 - $6,000 depending on the length of the program and other factors.

8. Special Education Endorsement

Special Education Endorsement is a professional credential that certifies an educator to teach students with disabilities in the K-12 setting. It is typically obtained through the state's Department of Education and requires additional coursework, field experience, and/or exams.

The length of time it takes to obtain a Special Education Endorsement varies by state and can range from as little as two semesters of coursework to up to three years. Requirements may include taking courses in special education methods, assessment, curriculum development, and other related topics; completing field experiences; and passing exams.

To get a Special Education Endorsement, educators should first check with their state’s Department of Education for specific requirements. Most states require completion of an approved program in special education or related fields such as psychology or social work. Educators may also need to pass a certification exam before receiving the endorsement.

The cost of obtaining a Special Education Endorsement depends on the state and type of program chosen. Costs may include tuition fees for coursework, books and materials, application fees, and any required exams or field experiences.

9. Literacy Coaching Certificate

Literacy Coaching Certificate is a professional development program designed to help educators become more effective in teaching literacy skills. It is offered by the International Literacy Association (ILA) and provides teachers with the knowledge, skills, and strategies necessary to effectively support students’ literacy development. The certificate program consists of two parts: an online course and face-to-face workshops.

The online course is self-paced and takes approximately 10 hours to complete. It covers topics such as instructional strategies, assessment, data analysis, and collaboration. Upon completion of the online course, participants must attend four face-to-face workshops that are held throughout the year at various locations across the United States. These workshops provide hands-on learning opportunities for participants to practice their coaching skills with real students.

In order to earn the Literacy Coaching Certificate, participants must complete both the online course and all four face-to-face workshops within one year of enrolling in the program. The cost for the entire program is $595 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees.

10. Technology Integration Certificate

Technology Integration Certificate is a professional certificate program designed to provide educators with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively integrate technology into their classrooms. The program focuses on helping teachers understand how to use technology to enhance student learning, increase engagement, and improve the effectiveness of instruction.

The Technology Integration Certificate Program typically takes about 12-18 months to complete. It consists of four courses that cover topics such as: educational technology tools, instructional design, digital citizenship, and assessment strategies. Each course is designed to help teachers develop the skills necessary for effective technology integration in their classrooms.

To get the Technology Integration Certificate, you must first complete all four required courses within the program. You can take these courses either online or in a traditional classroom setting. Once all four courses have been completed, you must submit an application and pay a fee for certification.

The cost of the Technology Integration Certificate Program varies depending on where you take the courses and how many credits you need for completion. Generally speaking, it will cost anywhere from $500-$1000 USD for all four courses and certification fees.

11. Professional Development Certificate

A Professional Development Certificate (PDC) is a formal recognition of the completion of a course or program that helps to enhance an individual’s professional skills and knowledge. It is typically awarded by educational institutions, professional organizations, or employers. The length of time it takes to obtain a PDC varies depending on the type of program and the institution offering it. Generally speaking, most programs can be completed in less than a year.

To obtain a PDC, individuals must complete all required courses or programs within the specified timeframe. Depending on the type of certificate program, students may need to demonstrate mastery of specific topics through exams or other assessments. Additionally, some programs may require students to complete an internship or practicum experience as part of their studies.

The cost of obtaining a PDC varies depending on the institution offering the program and other factors such as location and program duration. Generally speaking, most programs range from $500 to $2,000 in tuition fees. In addition to tuition costs, students may also need to pay for materials such as textbooks and lab fees associated with certain courses.

Do You Really Need a High School English Teacher Certificate?

Yes, I believe it is important to have a high school English teacher certificate. English is one of the most important languages in the world and it is necessary for students to learn how to read, write, and communicate effectively in order to succeed in their future endeavors. Having a high school English teacher certificate allows teachers the opportunity to be more knowledgeable about the subject and better equip them with the skills needed to help their students succeed.

Having a high school English teacher certificate helps ensure that teachers are qualified and knowledgeable about all aspects of teaching English. The teacher must possess an understanding of literature, grammar, linguistics, rhetoric, composition, research methods and other related topics. With this knowledge, teachers can provide students with an effective learning environment where they can build upon their existing language skills and develop new ones. In addition, having a high school English teacher certificate also ensures that teachers are aware of current trends in education and can provide guidance on how best to use technology in the classroom.

Having a high school English teacher certificate also provides credibility for teachers when seeking employment opportunities or even advancing their career within the field of education. Employers will look favorably upon someone who has taken the time to obtain such a certification as it demonstrates dedication and commitment to teaching excellence. Furthermore, having such credentials will help educators stand out among other applicants when applying for job positions or promotions within educational institutions or organizations.

In conclusion, having a high school English teacher certificate is essential for anyone looking to pursue a career as an educator or even advance their current position within the field of education. Such certification not only provides teachers with an understanding of the subject but also gives them credibility when seeking employment opportunities or promotions within educational institutions or organizations.

Related: High School English Teacher Resume Examples

FAQs About High School English Teacher Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become a high school English teacher?

A: To become a high school English teacher, you must have a bachelor’s degree in English or a related field, plus a teaching certification from your state.

2. How can I earn my teaching certification?

A: You must complete an approved teacher education program and pass the required tests in your state. Additionally, you may need to complete additional coursework and/or fulfill any other requirements that are specific to the state where you wish to teach.

3. Are there any special certifications for high school English teachers?

A: Yes, some states offer special certifications for high school English teachers such as advanced placement (AP) certification or English as a second language (ESL) certification.

4. How long does it take to get certified as a high school English teacher?

A: The amount of time it takes to get certified will vary depending on your state and the type of certification you are seeking. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years to complete all of the necessary coursework and testing requirements for certification.

5. Is there any financial assistance available for teacher certification programs?

A: Yes, many states offer financial assistance programs specifically for those pursuing teacher certification programs such as grants and scholarships. Additionally, some schools may also provide assistance through tuition reimbursement or loan forgiveness programs.